Before Lionel Messi and the “Messimania,” there was a phenomenon in the United States known as “Fernandomania,” which culminated in a perfect season for one of the greatest Mexican athletes of all time.

Talking about Fernando Valenzuela is synonymous with greatness, and we cannot forget the 1981 World Series, where his legend was forged as the Los Angeles Dodgers faced the New York Yankees in the Fall Classic.

That season, 43 years ago, Valenzuela took the mound on April 9, 1981, to open the season. He pitched a complete game (as was common back then, given that pitch count restrictions were not in place), shut out the Houston Astros, and embarked on his journey to winning the Cy Young Award that year.

Valenzuela started the season with an impressive 8-0 record, including five shutouts and an astonishing 0.50 ERA. During his dominance on the mound, Valenzuela performed an unusual gesture: just at the peak of every pitch, he would glance skyward, a quirk that quickly caught people's attention. This habit, which he developed spontaneously, became a signature of his until he joined the Dodgers.

At that moment, Fernando Valenzuela became an icon, especially within the Latino community of Los Angeles, who packed the stadiums to see him pitch. His popularity exploded nationwide, and the demand for his rookie baseball cards skyrocketed. This frenzy surrounding Valenzuela was dubbed "Fernandomania." During his warm-ups at Dodger Stadium, the sound system would play the 1976 hit song "Fernando" by the Swedish group ABBA. Valenzuela became the first player ever to win both Rookie of the Year and the Cy Young Award in the same season, leading the National League in strikeouts. That same season, the Dodgers clinched the World Series by defeating the New York Yankees.

The peak of "Fernandomania" in 1981 came in June, when Valenzuela received death threats. An anonymous phone call alerted the police in St. Louis, where the Dodgers were playing. Valenzuela had to be evacuated through an emergency exit and escorted by FBI agents. Thankfully, the threat never materialized, but it showcased the enormous attention he was receiving.

After the 1981 strike, which shortened the season by one-third, Valenzuela was less dominant but still finished with a solid 13-7 record and a 2.48 ERA. He led the league in complete games (11), shutouts (8), innings pitched (192.1), and strikeouts (180).

Fernando Valenzuela in the 1981 Postseason

In the postseason, Valenzuela became the youngest pitcher to start the first game of a series and threw a complete game in Game 3 of the 1981 World Series against the Yankees. His postseason record was 3-1, helping the Dodgers secure their first World Series championship since 1965, when they defeated the Minnesota Twins.

Beyond his prowess on the mound, Valenzuela was also a skilled hitter, a rarity for pitchers. In his rookie season, he batted .250 and struck out only nine times in 64 at-bats, earning him the Silver Slugger Award, given to the best-hitting pitcher in the National League.

Fernando Valenzuela’s Health Condition

According to information revealed by Univision Deportes, there are no exact details regarding the legendary Mexican athlete’s health. Neither his family nor official sources have commented on his condition. However, it has been confirmed that “El Toro” is receiving medical care at a hospital in Los Angeles, the city where he shone as one of the best pitchers of the modern era.

What Have the Dodgers Said About Fernando Valenzuela's Situation?

The Dodgers released a statement expressing their unconditional support and concern for Valenzuela's health. They also announced that he will not be able to participate in upcoming radio broadcasts, where he had been working as a commentator.

“Our beloved Fernando Valenzuela is facing a health issue that will prevent him from joining us in the upcoming broadcasts. We send him all our love and support during this challenging time, wishing him a speedy recovery.”

For this reason, the legendary former player will not be part of the radio team covering the excitement of the World Series. It’s important to note that details about Valenzuela’s health status remain unknown.